Montana Whitewater
GRAVE CREEK SYSTEM
STREAMFLOW: 955 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
.
The Grave Creek System, located in western Montana, offers challenging whitewater rapids for experienced paddlers. The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 1,500 and 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring snowmelt season. The river is rated as Class III-IV, with some sections reaching Class V during high water levels.
The Grave Creek System consists of three segments: The North Fork, Middle Fork, and South Fork, totaling approximately 25 miles in length. The North Fork is the most challenging of the three segments, with several Class V rapids, including "Kirby" and "The Gaping Maw." The Middle Fork is shorter and less challenging, with mostly Class III-IV rapids. The South Fork is the longest segment, with mostly Class III-IV rapids and a few Class V sections.
Specific obstacles on the Grave Creek System include large boulders, tight channels, and steep drops. Paddlers should be experienced and skilled in navigating technical rapids and reading water. It is recommended that paddlers wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets and personal flotation devices.
There are specific regulations in place for the Grave Creek System, including a permit system for commercial and private trips. Permits must be obtained through the Forest Service, and groups are limited to a maximum of 15 people per trip. Paddlers must also pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Get driving directions.
The Grave Creek System, located in western Montana, offers challenging whitewater rapids for experienced paddlers. The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 1,500 and 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring snowmelt season. The river is rated as Class III-IV, with some sections reaching Class V during high water levels.
The Grave Creek System consists of three segments: The North Fork, Middle Fork, and South Fork, totaling approximately 25 miles in length. The North Fork is the most challenging of the three segments, with several Class V rapids, including "Kirby" and "The Gaping Maw." The Middle Fork is shorter and less challenging, with mostly Class III-IV rapids. The South Fork is the longest segment, with mostly Class III-IV rapids and a few Class V sections.
Specific obstacles on the Grave Creek System include large boulders, tight channels, and steep drops. Paddlers should be experienced and skilled in navigating technical rapids and reading water. It is recommended that paddlers wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets and personal flotation devices.
There are specific regulations in place for the Grave Creek System, including a permit system for commercial and private trips. Permits must be obtained through the Forest Service, and groups are limited to a maximum of 15 people per trip. Paddlers must also pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Get driving directions.
Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
River Levels | 714 cfs (5.33 ft) |
Percent of Normal | 77% |
Reporting Streamgauge | Flathead River at Flathead British Columbia |
Elevation | 3,983 ft. |
River | Flathead-River |
Watershed | Upper Kootenai |
Nearby Camping
Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Frozen Lake | 5 | 4,942 ft | |||
Big Therriault Lake | 10 | 5,575 ft | |||
Little Therriault Lake | 6 | 5,531 ft | |||
North Dickey Lake | 25 | 3,140 ft |
Weather Forecast
Points of Interest
Location |
---|
Ross Creek Cedars |